Rays have deal to search for new stadium

SAN DIEGO — In what appears to be a big step in securing the future of baseball in the Tampa Bay area, St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and the Rays have reached an agreement to let the team search for a new stadium in Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties. In exchange, the Rays would make payments to St. Petersburg if the team leaves Tropicana Field before its contract expires in 2027.